Different Types of Shops in English

Summary

In this video, Gideon takes viewers on a journey through the quirky names of shops on Britain's High Streets. He explains the origins and meanings of terms like 'smith', 'monger', and 'parlour'. From the traditional 'baker's' and 'butcher's' to more specialized shops like 'fishmonger's' and 'ironmonger's', the script delves into the professions behind these names. The word 'parlour' is explored as well, from its historical roots in wealthy homes to its modern-day use in shops like ice cream parlours and beauty parlours. Gideon also touches on the less obvious, sometimes dubious, uses of the word, like 'massage parlour'.

Takeaways

• 😀 A 'smith' is someone who works with metal, and shop names like 'goldsmith,' 'blacksmith,' and 'locksmith' reflect this profession.
• 😀 The term 'monger' refers to a person who deals in a specific commodity, with examples like 'fishmonger' and 'cheesemonger.'
• 😀 The word 'monger' can also have a negative connotation when used as a suffix, such as in 'warmonger' or 'scaremonger.'
• 😀 'Parlour' originates from the French 'parler' (to speak) and was once used for formal rooms in wealthy households.
• 😀 Today, 'parlour' is used for certain shops where customers gather and spend time, such as 'ice cream parlours' and 'beauty parlours.'
• 😀 A 'parlour' can also refer to more specialized establishments, such as a 'funeral parlour' or 'tattoo parlour.'
• 😀 The names of shops in Britain often reflect the profession or service provided, like 'bookshop,' 'shoeshop,' and 'florist's.'
• 😀 Some shops take the name of the trader or artisan, such as 'the baker's,' 'the butcher's,' and 'the chemist's.'
• 😀 The naming of shops on the High Street can be traced back to historical practices and language changes over time.
• 😀 The script highlights how language and shop names have evolved, blending history with modern-day usage and societal shifts.

Q & A

What does the term 'monger' refer to in shop names?

The term 'monger' refers to someone who deals in a specific commodity. For example, a fishmonger sells fish, an ironmonger sells metal goods, and a cheesemonger sells cheese.

What is the origin of the word 'parlour'?

The word 'parlour' comes from the French word 'parler', meaning 'to speak'. It originally referred to a room in a wealthy household where guests were entertained.

What is the modern-day use of the word 'parlour'?

In modern times, 'parlour' is used for shops where customers gather and spend time, such as ice cream parlours, beauty parlours, and tattoo parlours.

What does the suffix 'smith' in shop names indicate?

'Smith' in shop names refers to a person who works with a particular type of metal. For example, a blacksmith works with iron, a goldsmith works with gold, and a locksmith makes or repairs locks.

What is the difference between a smith and a monger?

A 'smith' refers to a craftsperson who works with metals, while a 'monger' refers to someone who deals in a specific commodity, such as fishmonger for fish or ironmonger for metal goods.

Why are there fewer blacksmiths on the High Street today?

There are fewer blacksmiths today because modern machinery has replaced much of the traditional metalworking tasks that blacksmiths once performed, such as shoeing horses and making metal tools.

What does the term 'warmonger' mean?

'Warmonger' is a term used to describe someone who promotes or encourages war. It’s a negative term used for individuals or groups who 'sell' or promote the idea of conflict.

What is the relationship between 'monger' and harmful behavior?

The term 'monger' can also describe someone who promotes something harmful, such as a scaremonger (someone who spreads fear) or a gossipmonger (someone who spreads rumors).

How has the role of parlours evolved over time?

Parlours once referred to a formal room in wealthy homes for entertaining guests. However, with the rise of the telephone and automobiles, the need for such rooms disappeared, and now parlour refers to certain types of shops where customers can relax and socialize.

What are some examples of businesses that use the word 'parlour' in their name?

Examples of businesses using 'parlour' include ice cream parlours, beauty parlours, massage parlours, and tattoo parlours.